updated 11:52 am EDT, Tue October 2, 2012

MoviePass subscription service goes live for invited iPhone owners

The MoviePass service that had some teething issues last year is now exiting its beta test phase and phasing in an iPhone app. The service costs between $25 and $40 depending on the subscriber's location, and there are some restrictions. The biggest is that the full-blown service is by invitation only.

Also, only one ticket per day can be redeemed, and 3D and IMAX shows aren't supported. The process itself is somewhat complex, as it requires subscribers to select a move from their MoviePass app on their iPhone, which will then unlock the associated debit card, which then needs to be used to gain access into the theater.

Users also can't order tickets in advance, so planning a night out is more difficult than it should be. Those who have access now can invite friends to start using the service on Thanksgiving late in November.

An Android app is said to be in the works and due for release in the next few weeks as well.